I watched the Beaumont family's expressions shift from recognition to shock as our Bentley pulled away from the hotel entrance. Daphne's excited wave hung frozen in mid-air. The elderly woman beside her—likely her grandmother—looked puzzled, while Caleb remained pale with dawning comprehension.
"They recognize you," Nathaniel noted, his voice low as we entered the hotel lobby.
"Yes. It's... complicated," I replied, keeping my voice steady despite my racing heart.
Nathaniel's hand found the small of my back, guiding me through the luxurious lobby. The touch was light but possessive, sending an unexpected flutter through my stomach.
"Care to elaborate?" he asked.
"Daphne Beaumont was my patient once. And I had a... disagreement with Caleb earlier today."
Nathaniel's eyebrows rose slightly, but he didn't press further as we approached a hotel staff member who immediately straightened upon seeing him.
"Mr. Ricardo, welcome. Everything is prepared as you requested."
